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Science News for March 7, 2013


Biologists produce rainbow-colored algae

Researchers engineered Chlamydomonas reinhardtii into a rainbow of colors by producing six different fluorescent proteins in the algae cells. This innovation provides a powerful tool for algae researchers to sort cells, view cellular structures, and create fusion proteins.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateMar 7, 2013

NIH study sheds light on role of climate in influenza transmission

A recent NIH study found a strong association between cold-dry and humid-rainy climates and seasonal influenza epidemics worldwide. The research used a climate-based model to map influenza activity globally, accounting for diverse seasonal patterns in temperate, subtropical, and tropical regions.

SourceNIH/Fogarty International Center·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMar 7, 2013

Emotion-health connection not limited to industrialized nations

A UC Irvine study of 150,000 people in 142 countries found that the link between positive emotions and health is stronger in developing nations. People in Malawi showed a more robust connection between positive emotions and health than residents of the U.S., highlighting the importance of emotional well-being worldwide.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 7, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Better living through mindfulness

A new study from the University of Utah reveals that individuals with higher mindfulness traits experience greater emotional stability, better self-control, and lower physiological activation before bedtime. This finding suggests that mindfulness may contribute to improved emotional and physical well-being by enhancing self-regulation ...

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateMar 7, 2013

Trauma simulation technique makes better journalists

Researchers from Concordia University propose a unique simulation technique to prepare rookie reporters for traumatic events. The study finds that simulation-based training can teach journalists ethical behavior and reduce the risk of further traumatizing victims.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Mass Media Ethics·DateMar 7, 2013

Pushing the boundaries

A new model of cell fusion was created by researchers at Johns Hopkins, revealing two critical components necessary for the process. The discovery may lead to improved treatments for muscular dystrophy, as cell fusion plays a crucial role in muscle regeneration.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience·DateMar 7, 2013
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

The future of ion traps

Researchers explore ion traps as a promising architecture for constructing a quantum computer, leveraging qubits' coherence time and protection from ambient disturbances. The development of micro-fabricated devices and cryogenic cooling techniques aims to push the limits of pressure and storage capacity.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalScience·DateMar 7, 2013

Age matters in weight gain: Overweight at young age takes toll

A longitudinal study found that people who carry excess weight over their lifetime have increased left ventricular mass and relative wall thickness, strong predictors of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The earlier someone becomes overweight, the greater the increase in heart muscle mass later in life.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 7, 2013
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Is this peptide a key to happiness?

Scientists at UCLA discovered a peptide called hypocretin that increases happiness and alertness in humans, while another peptide MCH plays a key role in sleep regulation. The study provides a potential new approach to treating psychiatric disorders like depression.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 7, 2013

New study validates longevity pathway

Researchers validate resveratrol's direct activation of SIRT1, a protein promoting health and longevity. The study suggests potent drugs may treat and prevent age-related diseases.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience·DateMar 7, 2013

A cancer-promoting protein is found to also suppress cell growth

A study published in Molecular Cell reveals that the oncogenic protein SRSF1 promotes cellular senescence by stabilizing p53, preventing cancerous proliferation. The research also identifies a link between oncogenic stress and ribosomal stress response.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 7, 2013
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

NASA provides satellite views of Nor'easter on March 7, 2013

A powerful Nor'easter merged two low-pressure areas on March 6, bringing winter weather advisories to the Mid-Atlantic. NASA provided satellite views of the storm's power and movement, showing the heaviest precipitation over New Jersey and Maryland.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 7, 2013

Money talks when it comes to losing weight, Mayo Clinic study finds

A Mayo Clinic study found that participants who received financial incentives lost more weight and remained in the program longer than those without incentives. The results suggest that financial incentives can improve weight loss outcomes and adherence, potentially helping to address the growing obesity epidemic in the US.

SourceMayo Clinic·DateMar 7, 2013

FASEB MARC Travel Awards announced for the 2013 American College of Sports Medicine Northwest Chapter Meeting

The FASEB MARC Program has announced the travel award recipients for the 2013 American College of Sports Medicine Northwest Chapter Meeting, aiming to promote diversity in the basic science community. The program aims to increase the number and competitiveness of underrepresented minorities in biomedical research.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·DateMar 7, 2013
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Child marriages: 39,000 every day

Between 2011 and 2020, over 140 million girls will become child brides, with 50 million under 15. This practice increases the risk of intimate partner violence and HIV infection. The UN calls for an end to child marriage by 2030 to meet Millennium Development Goals.

SourceHoffman & Hoffman Worldwide·DateMar 7, 2013

Net advantage

A new study from NIMBioS found that using insecticide-treated bed nets can positively affect malaria's reproduction number, leading to potential elimination. The use of ITNs could reduce the transmission of malaria by reducing mosquito density and lifespan.

SourceNational Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateMar 7, 2013

Fatty acids could lead to flu drug

A study published in Cell Press reveals that a compound derived from fats found in fish oils prevents death in influenza-virus-infected mice. The compound, protectin D1, inhibits virus replication and improves survival when given 2 days after infection, offering a promising strategy for treating severe influenza.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateMar 7, 2013

Even mild traumatic brain injuries can kill brain tissue

Scientists have found that mild traumatic brain injuries can lead to swelling, reduced blood flow, and death of neurons. Astrocytes, which supply nutrients to neurons, swell quickly and significantly, smothering them and their branches. This secondary damage can occur within hours of the initial injury.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalBrain·DateMar 7, 2013
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

School-based kitchen gardens are getting an A+

A new study found that school-based kitchen garden programs increase children's willingness to try new foods, with cooking classes playing a key role. The program not only teaches environmental sustainability but also skills to prepare and cook healthy meals using fresh produce.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateMar 7, 2013

ADHD symptoms persist for most young children despite treatment

A recent study found that nearly 90% of preschoolers with ADHD continued to struggle with symptoms six years after diagnosis. Children taking ADHD medication had just as severe symptoms as those who were medication-free, suggesting a need for improved treatment strategies.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateMar 7, 2013
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

U of T engineering breakthrough promises significantly more efficient solar cells

Researchers at U of T have developed a new technique to boost the efficiency of solar cells by up to 35% through the use of nanoshells. This breakthrough could lead to more affordable and efficient solar power, as the technology already offers low-cost and large-scale production capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 7, 2013

Weight loss linked to higher risk with implanted defibrillators

A multicenter study found that even minor weight loss is associated with worse health outcomes among patients with cardiac resynchronization therapy with defibrillator devices. Patients who lost more than 2 kilograms during the 12-month observation period had a significant increase in risk of heart failure or death.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 7, 2013

Worming our way to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have developed a new approach to screening potential treatments for Alzheimer's disease using the C. elegans worm model. The study identified six compounds capable of alleviating tau-induced behavioral abnormalities in the worm model, as well as azaperone treatment, which can decrease abnormal tau accumulation.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMar 7, 2013
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Rehab associated with reduced risk of death in women with CAD

A 12-week cardiac rehabilitation program reduced mortality in women with coronary artery disease by two-thirds, yet referrals and attendance among women fall short compared to men. Women who receive a referral but don't attend also have better outcomes, suggesting a referral bias towards healthier individuals.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 7, 2013

Prairie dogs disperse when all close kin have disappeared

A study by behavioral ecologist John Hoogland found that prairie dogs are more likely to disperse in the absence of nearby close kin. This unique pattern is attributed to the benefits of cooperation with close kin, including shared resources and defense against predators.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalScience·DateMar 7, 2013

VHIO scientists eradicate lung tumors in a pre-clinical mouse model

Researchers at Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology have successfully eliminated mouse lung tumors by inhibiting the Myc protein, a key regulator of gene expression and cell growth. The study confirms that Myc-targeted therapy is a safe and effective option for treating various types of cancer, with no signs of resistance or side effects.

SourceVall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology·JournalGenes & Development·DateMar 7, 2013
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

More baccalaureate-prepared nurses in hospitals connected to fewer patient deaths

A study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing found that hospitals with more baccalaureate-prepared nurses had lower patient mortality rates following common surgeries. Increasing the percentage of BSN-prepared nurses in hospitals could potentially save around 500 lives, according to researchers.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMar 7, 2013

Long predicted atomic collapse state observed in graphene

Berkeley Lab researchers successfully recreated the elusive atomic collapse state in graphene using artificial nuclei, confirming relativistic quantum mechanics predictions. This breakthrough has significant implications for graphene-based electronic devices and future nanotechnology applications.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateMar 7, 2013
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Stocking Florida bass in Texas reservoirs may alter stream systems connected to stocked reservoirs

A genetic analysis by Baylor University biologists reveals that Florida bass stocking in Texas reservoirs affects bass populations far beyond the actual stocking location. The study found Florida bass DNA in bass at all sampling locations, including sites over 50 miles upstream from the closest documented stocking location.

SourceBaylor University·JournalTransactions of the American Fisheries Society·DateMar 7, 2013

Japanese researchers succeed in making generations of mouse clones

Researchers at RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology successfully cloned mice multiple times using somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) technique, overcoming previous limitations. The study published in Cell Stem Cell reveals no accumulation of genetic or epigenetic abnormalities after repeated cloning.

SourceRIKEN·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMar 7, 2013

Sniff, sniff. What did you say?

Research in rats reveals that sniffing behaviors convey information about an individual's social status, with dominant rats acting as primary sniffers and subordinate sniffees slowing their breath. This new form of communication allows animals to avoid conflicts and maintain social hierarchy.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 7, 2013
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

The side effects of statin ads

Exposure to statin TV ads was linked to higher rates of high cholesterol diagnosis and statin use, especially among those at low risk for heart disease

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMar 7, 2013
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Novel marker helps identify preeclampsia risk in pregnancy

A novel marker that measures relative changes in the number of capillaries under the skin can accurately predict preeclampsia risk in pregnancy, improving upon existing screening tests. This non-invasive technique identified high-risk women with 87% accuracy and demonstrated significant benefits for timely medical care.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 7, 2013

UMD study provides new clues to how flu virus spreads

A University of Maryland study found that wearing a surgical mask can significantly reduce the release of infectious flu virus in even the smallest airborne droplets. The research provides new evidence on the importance of using masks to prevent the spread of influenza, particularly among vulnerable populations.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMar 7, 2013
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Patient reports via telemedicine result in lower blood pressure

Using a telemedicine system to engage people in underserved urban communities resulted in significant reductions in systolic blood pressure. Nearly all study participants lowered their blood pressure, with those using the interactive reporting system achieving an average drop of 19 mmHg compared to 12 mmHg for non-telemedicine users.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalAmerican Heart Journal·DateMar 7, 2013

Drugs targeting blood vessels may be candidates for treating Alzheimer's

Researchers at University of British Columbia have found that blood vessels in the brain can be normalized with amyloid beta immunization, reducing plaque build-up and brain capillary growth. This discovery suggests that drugs targeting blood vessels could be effective in treating Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 7, 2013
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Duckweed as a cost-competitive raw material for biofuel production

Researchers propose duckweed as a sustainable alternative for producing gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel due to its fast growth rate and ability to thrive in wastewater. The study suggests that small-scale duckweed refineries can produce cost-competitive fuel when oil prices reach $100 per barrel.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateMar 7, 2013

Penn researchers find molecular key to exhaustion following sleep deprivation

Scientists have identified a molecular mechanism underlying sleep homeostasis in nematode worms, which may have implications for human health. The study found that loss of sleep led to the migration of a stress-related protein into the nucleus, activating stress genes and triggering a behavioral response.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 7, 2013

Higher heart attack rates continue 6 years after Katrina

A study found that six years after Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans residents experienced a three-fold increased risk of heart attack. Psychosocial factors, including chronic stress and anxiety disorders, played a significant role in this increase.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 7, 2013
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

New software could help cut hospital admissions

A new software tool, COCPIT, will aid healthcare professionals in identifying at-risk patients and investigating data quality issues. By analyzing patient journeys and electronic health records, the tool aims to improve patient care and public health by reducing hospital admissions for conditions like strokes.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateMar 7, 2013

Program that pays for weight loss seems to pay off

A study found that modest financial incentives significantly increased sustained participation in a weight-loss program and long-term maintenance of weight loss. Participants who received financial rewards lost more weight (9.08 pounds) compared to those without incentives (2.34 pounds).

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 7, 2013

Nanoparticles loaded with bee venom kill HIV

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have developed nanoparticles carrying melittin, a toxin found in bee venom, that can destroy human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) while leaving surrounding cells unharmed. This finding offers an important step towards developing a vaginal gel that may prevent the spread of HIV.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAntiviral Therapy·DateMar 7, 2013

New form of animal communication discovered

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine found that rats use sniffing behavior to signal social hierarchy and prevent aggressive behavior. This discovery may help understand how neurological disorders impact social behaviors.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 7, 2013
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Hubble finds birth certificate of oldest known star

Astronomers used NASA's Hubble Space Telescope to determine the age of the oldest known star, HD 140283, which could be as old as 14.5 billion years. The new age estimate reduces measurement uncertainty, overlapping with the universe's age, and provides a precise calculation of the star's intrinsic brightness.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 7, 2013

Genomic screening for improved public health

Researchers recommend exploring genetic testing to identify people at high risk for preventable diseases, with the technology becoming increasingly accessible and affordable. A carefully selected panel of genetic tests could avert disastrous health consequences in individuals at high risk.

SourceAmerican College of Medical Genetics and Genomics·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateMar 7, 2013

NASA's TRMM satellite sees Tropical Cyclone 19P form

Heavy rainfall rates of 2 inches/50 mm per hour were observed around the center of circulation, with powerful thunderstorms reaching heights of 9.3 miles (15 kilometers). The tropical storm strengthened and moved east-northeast at 11 knots (12.6 mph/20.3 kph), affecting New Caledonia by March 11.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 7, 2013
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Land-use zoning may be able to reduce crime in urban areas, study finds

A new RAND Corporation study found that city blocks with both residential and commercial zoning purposes experienced less crime than those zoned primarily for commercial purposes. Researchers also discovered that crime rates dropped by an average of 7% when neighborhoods underwent changes in zoning, mostly towards residential uses.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalUniversity of Pennsylvania Law Review·DateMar 7, 2013

Study examines global management of anemia in children on dialysis

A global study found that children on dialysis with poor response to anemia medications are linked to inflammation, fluid retention, and hyperparathyroidism. High doses of anemia medications also increase the risk of premature death. The study provided valuable insights into anemia control in pediatric patients.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 7, 2013
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Vets' PTSD affects mental and physical health of partners

A study by the University of Utah reveals that female partners of vets with PTSD suffer from significant increases in blood pressure, anger, and emotional distress. The study suggests these partners may be at similar or greater risk for cardiovascular disease due to relationship conflict and PTSD.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateMar 7, 2013

Researchers find molecular switch turning on self-renewal of liver damage

A protein complex has been identified that acts as a molecular switch turning on the self-regeneration program in the liver, allowing ordinary liver cells to divide and repair tissue damage. This finding challenges the current focus on stem cells and may lead to easier therapeutic treatments.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalGenome Research·DateMar 7, 2013

How to thrive in battery acid and among toxic metals

The genome of extremophile red alga Galdieria sulphuraria reveals horizontal gene transfer from bacteria, allowing it to survive battery acid and toxic metals. This discovery provides new insights into evolution and potential applications in biotechnology.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateMar 7, 2013
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Stronger support needed for healthy beverage practices in child care

A new study highlights the lack of availability and accessibility of water in child care centers, which can hinder the development of health habits. The researchers emphasize the need for policy change and support to help centers meet existing water policies and promote healthy beverage practices.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateMar 7, 2013

Using human brain cells to make mice smarter

Researchers implanted human brain cells into mice, finding enhanced learning and memory compared to normal mice. The study suggests that human-specific glial form and function contribute to the evolution of human cognition.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMar 7, 2013

First discovery of a natural topological insulator

Researchers identify Kawazulite as a natural topological insulator, which conducts electricity on its surface and acts as an insulator inside. This discovery could pave the way for faster quantum computers.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 7, 2013

Age at first menstrual cycle, menopause tied to heart disease risk

A recent study found that Chinese women who started menstruating later or went through menopause at an older age were less likely to develop cardiovascular disease. The study also discovered a higher risk of osteoporosis for those with early menopause, with benefits seen in women over 50 when entering menopause.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 7, 2013
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

High BMI linked to heart attack, stroke in young women

A nationwide Danish study finds that young women with a high body mass index (BMI) are twice as likely to suffer a life-threatening heart attack or stroke within four to five years after childbirth. The study, led by Michelle Schmiegelow, examines the association between obesity and cardiac events in women aged 35-44.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 7, 2013

Tracking sediments' fate in largest-ever dam removal

Researchers at the University of Washington are studying the sediment's fate after the removal of the Elwha Dam, which has released an estimated 34 million cubic yards of silt and sand into the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The sediments' ultimate fate is crucial for understanding their impact on the ocean floor and marine life.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateMar 7, 2013

Lizards facing mass extinction

A new study suggests that climate change may lead to the extinction of dozens of lizard species within the next 50 years due to rising temperatures. Lizards with viviparous reproduction are particularly vulnerable as changing weather patterns affect their ability to adapt and survive in cold environments.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateMar 7, 2013
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Exercise shields children from stress

A recent study found that sedentary children experience stress hormone surges when exposed to everyday stressors, while the most active children had little or no increase in cortisol levels. The study suggests physical activity plays a role in mental health by buffering children from daily stressors.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 7, 2013

Dual systems key to keeping chromosomes intact

Scientists have discovered two structural apparatuses that collaborate to protect repetitive DNA during replication. Disrupting both heterochromatin and replication fork proteins increases abnormal chromosomes and cell death.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 7, 2013

Lack of aspirin before angioplasty linked with higher mortality

A recent study by the American College of Cardiology found that patients not given aspirin before artery-clearing coronary angioplasty and stenting have a significantly higher in-hospital death rate. The study examined registry data from over 65,000 patients and found that nearly 7% did not receive aspirin as recommended.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 7, 2013
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Study finds up to half of gestational diabetes patients will develop type 2 diabetes

A recent study found that women with gestational diabetes are at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, with a significant defect in insulin secretion identified as a key factor. The study's findings indicate that up to half of Asian women who had gestational diabetes may develop Type 2 diabetes within eight years of giving birth.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 7, 2013

Bees get a buzz from caffeine

Scientists have shown that caffeine enhances a honeybee's memory of floral traits, allowing them to remember flowers better. This discovery could lead to improved pollination and plant recruitment.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalScience·DateMar 7, 2013

Organizing enzymes to create electricity

A researcher has received a grant to develop a method to organize enzymes on electrodes to create nanoscale devices that efficiently convert chemical energy into electricity. The goal is to enhance kinetics by spatial organization and apply the understanding to biofuel cells, pharmaceuticals, and commodity chemicals.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateMar 7, 2013

Earth is warmer today than during 70 to 80 percent of the past 11,300 years

A new study reconstructs Earth's temperature history back to the end of the last Ice Age, revealing that the planet is warmer than it was during 70 to 80 percent of the past 11,300 years. The analysis also shows that global temperatures have warmed about 1.3 degrees Fahrenheit over the past century.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateMar 7, 2013

Cholesterol levels rise, fall with changing seasons

Researchers found that LDL cholesterol increases by an average of 7mg/dL in winter compared to summer, resulting in a 8% overall increase in high cholesterol prevalence. Seasonal variations in metabolism and behavior may contribute to these changes.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 7, 2013
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Test-taking may improve learning in people of all ages

Adults of various ages improved retention of new information by taking tests and receiving feedback compared to restudying, according to a study published in Psychology and Aging. The results suggest that testing can be an effective way to increase learning in adults of all ages.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateMar 7, 2013

Support cells found in human brain make mice smarter

The study demonstrates that when transplanted into mice, human glial cells can influence communication within the brain, allowing animals to learn more rapidly. Human astrocytes are found to have unique functional advantages and play a significant role in integrating and coordinating neural activity.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMar 7, 2013

UTHealth research: Low incidence of venous insufficiency in MS

Researchers at UTHealth found CCSVI occurs at a low rate in people with multiple sclerosis and non-MS volunteers. The study suggests CCSVI is unlikely to be the cause of MS or contribute to disease worsening.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateMar 7, 2013

Do-gooder or ne'er-do-well? Behavioral science explains patterns of moral behavior

Research suggests that people with an 'ends justify the means' mindset tend to balance their good and bad deeds, while those who believe in principle-based morality are more likely to be consistent in their behavior. The study found that individuals with a rule-based mindset were less likely to cheat after recalling an ethical act.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 7, 2013
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Changes in heart attack timing continue years after hurricane

Research shows that even five years after Hurricane Katrina, heart attacks were still less likely to occur during the morning or on weekdays and instead more frequent at night and on weekends. Prolonged periods of stress are believed to be the most likely cause for these changes.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 7, 2013

How science debunked the ancient Aztec crystal skull hoax

The American Chemical Society reveals that quartz-crystal skulls, once believed to be ancient relics, are actually post-Columbian fakes created in the 1860s. Experts used scientific instruments to expose their authenticity, tracing back to French dealer Eugène Boban who sparked public fascination with the fakes

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 7, 2013

Disease knowledge may advance faster with CRISPR gene probing tool

Scientists at UC San Francisco have developed a more precise way to turn off genes using a protein from bacteria to fight off viruses. The new technology, called CRISPR interference, allows researchers to selectively perturb gene expression on a genome-wide scale and identify key proteins that control cellular events.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell·DateMar 7, 2013

Secondhand smoke exposure linked to signs of heart disease

Research found that people exposed to secondhand tobacco smoke have a higher risk of developing early signs of heart disease, including coronary artery calcification. The study also shows that the level of exposure to secondhand smoke is directly linked to the severity of CAC.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 7, 2013

When food is scarce, a smaller brain will do

Researchers found that the brain prioritizes neural diversity over number of neurons when faced with limited nutrients, a strategy essential for survival. This discovery may have implications for understanding human brain development and addressing intrauterine growth restriction.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateMar 7, 2013
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.